February marks Black History Month in Canada, a time to reflect on the rich legacy of Black Canadians. From the earliest Black settlers to today’s trailblazers, Black Canadians have made invaluable contributions to shaping the nation’s cultural and social fabric, and to its economic success.
This year’s theme, Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations, invites us to honour the past while inspiring a brighter future.
Black Canadian History: A Lasting Legacy
In the late 18th century, thousands of Black Loyalists arrived in Canada, seeking freedom and opportunity during the American Revolutionary War. They settled in Birchtown, Nova Scotia, which became one of the largest free Black communities in North America at the time. In 1796, another wave of Black settlers arrived in Halifax—the Maroons from Jamaica. Known for their fierce independence and leadership, the Maroons contributed to the development of Halifax and left a lasting legacy that has endured to the present day.
In 1978, the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) petitioned the City of Toronto to have February formally proclaimed as Black History Month. The first Black History Month in Canada was observed in Halifax in 1988. The House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in Canada in December 1995.
Black Canadians – Catalysts for Change
Despite enduring systemic inequities, Black Canadians have consistently broken barriers and emerged as trailblazers in countless fields. From Viola Desmond, whose courageous stand against racial segregation in 1940s Nova Scotia became a catalyst for change, to Jean Augustine, the first Black woman elected to Canada’s Parliament, these leaders have forged paths of progress and possibility. Inspiring figures like Michaëlle Jean, Canada’s first Black Governor General, alongside other visionary leaders in business, arts, and activism, continue to ignite hope and ambition. Their legacies not only honour the past but also empower future generations to dream boldly and to continue to spark change.
Looking Forward: Uplifting Future Generations
Celebrating Black History Month is not just about honouring the past—it’s also about inspiring the next generation. By amplifying Canada’s rich Black legacy, we create opportunities for young Black Canadians to see themselves as future leaders and changemakers. Initiatives like mentorship programs, scholarships, and community events during Black History Month help foster pride and ambition.
Black History Month is a reminder that Black history is Canadian history. As we celebrate this month, let’s commit to learning, listening, and amplifying Black voices. Let’s honour the legacy of the first Black Canadians in Halifax, while working toward a future where diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just ideals but attainable realities. Together, we can safeguard a bright future for young Black Canadians while contributing to a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
Here are a few resources to help us engage with the richness of Black Canadian history this February and beyond:
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Elevate Aviation is grateful to be headquartered within Treaty 6 Territory and within Region 4 (North Saskatchewan River Territory) of the Métis Nation. We acknowledge the land as the traditional territory of First Nations such as the Nehiyaw (Cree), Denesuliné (Dene), Nakota Sioux (Stoney), Anishinaabe (Saulteaux) and Niitsitapi (Blackfoot). We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples for their ongoing guardianship and deep connection to the land across Turtle Island.
